How do I help someone who is addicted?
Confronting a loved one, friend or family member struggling with addiction can be a difficult and emotional journey. The most important step to start with is to educate yourself on addiction. Get as much information as possible about addiction, the different theories behind it, the drug that the person concerned is using and behaviour associated with the drug. Read up on the reasons why people become addicted in the first place, what cravings are, how withdrawal symptoms present and how addiction is treated (usually a combination of psychological and psychiatric intervention). Speak to an addiction counsellor, psychologist or doctor to add to your knowledge bank.